How to Do the Back Rock in Breakdancing

Acrobatic breakdancing moves, like the back rock, began appearing on the scene in the early 1980s. Prior to that, breakdancing largely involved foot work and floor rock. The back rock requires strength and endurance but is easier to learn than most other acrobatic breakdancing moves. It's also a great move to transition to if you mess up another floor move.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Floor mat

1. Lie down with your back and legs flat on the floor. Bend your left knee to a 90-degree angle with the floor keeping your left foot on the floor. Before attempting the move, envision it in your head. Start by rocking to your left side first.

2. Gain momentum by switching your feet, so that you bend your right knee. As you push off with your right leg, swing your right arm over your body and above your left shoulder. At the same time, bring your left hand up to meet with your right hand. Your hands should form a "V" shape just above your left shoulder.

3. Lift off your left shoulder blade as your weight shifts to your side. Place your hands down on the floor above your shoulder and your head on the floor. You should hold your left leg and foot up as you tap your right toe.

4. Return to your original resting position after tapping your right toe. Then switch your feet and bended knee and repeat the same move on your opposite side.

5. Keep the one-two combination rhythm with this move. Try 1) on your back, 2) rock over to the left, 3) on your back and 4) rock over to the right.

Tips & Warnings

• Always practice on a floor mat or padded surface when learning a new move.
• When incorporating the back rock into your breakdancing moves, you can do a simple back rock to one side. You don't have to repeat it in the other direction.